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X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein as a therapeutic target

Emma J Dean1, Malcolm Ranson, Fiona Blackhall

  • 1Christie Hospital NHS Trust, Wilmslow Road, Manchester M20 4BX, UK. emma.dean@christie.nhs.uk

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|November 22, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Dysregulation of apoptosis, particularly via X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) overexpression, drives cancer resistance. Targeting XIAP offers a promising therapeutic strategy for various diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Dysregulated apoptosis contributes to diseases like cancer, neurodegeneration, and autoimmune disorders.
  • Overexpression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) confers cancer cells resistance to apoptosis.
  • This resistance impacts intrinsic apoptosis and response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular origins of XIAP.
  • To discuss XIAP's modulation and therapeutic potential as a drug target.
  • To consider future therapeutic perspectives for targeting XIAP.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of XIAP's role in apoptosis.
  • Analysis of XIAP's overexpression in cancer.
  • Exploration of therapeutic strategies targeting XIAP and related pathways.

Main Results:

  • XIAP overexpression is a key mechanism for tumor cell resistance to apoptosis.
  • XIAP's involvement in both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways is significant.
  • Modulation of XIAP presents a viable therapeutic avenue.

Conclusions:

  • XIAP is a critical regulator of apoptosis and a significant factor in cancer resistance.
  • Targeting XIAP, directly or indirectly, holds promise for novel cancer therapies.
  • Further research into XIAP modulation could lead to improved treatment strategies for various diseases.

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